Father,
You care about my suffering.
You do not dismiss or despise my suffering. You care about the hardship and sorrow found in the world. I believe that, Lord, even though I don't see it now. The Psalms say that You keep all my tears in a bottle (Psalm 56:8), that every hair on my head is numbered. In this time of sorrow, it is not answers that count but Your compassionate presence that heals me. Amen.
(From "Everyday Prayers for Everyday Cares")

1 I will sing of steadfast love and justice;
   to you, O LORD, I will make music.
2 I will ponder the way that is blameless.
   Oh when will you come to me?
   I will walk with integrity of heart
   within my house;
3 I will not set before my eyes
   anything that is worthless.
   I hate the work of those who fall away;
   it shall not cling to me.
4 A perverse heart shall be far from me;
   I will know nothing of evil.
Psalm 101 – English Standard Version

Readings for today from the Daily Lectionary
(click on underlined link to go directly to the reading)

2 Samuel 19:1-23 - Acts 24:1-23 - Mark 12:28-34